Bill113th Congress

H.R. 1867

BE SAFE Act

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Introduced
May 8, 2013
Origin Chamber
House
Policy Area
Armed Forces and National Security
Latest Action
Jun 20, 2013

Sponsor

Rep. Turner, Michael R. [R-OH-10]

Republican·OH-10
Bioguide ID: T000463
First Name: Michael
Middle Name: R.
Last Name: Turner
By Request: N
34
Cosponsors
1
Committees
4
Actions
0
Amendments
2
Related Bills
10
Subjects
1
Summaries
4
Titles
1
Text Versions

Bill Details

Update Date
Nov 15, 2019
Origin Chamber
House
Bill Type
HR
Bill Number
1,867
Congress
113
Introduced Date
May 8, 2013
Policy Area
Armed Forces and National Security
Is Law
No
Jun 20, 2013Committee

Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

Source: House committee actions

May 8, 2013IntroReferralH11100

Referred to the House Committee on Armed Services.

Source: House floor actions

May 8, 2013IntroReferralIntro-H

Introduced in House

Source: Library of Congress

May 8, 2013IntroReferral1000

Introduced in House

Source: Library of Congress

Introduced in House· May 8, 20130

Better Enforcement for Sexual Assault Free Environments Act of 2013 or BE SAFE Act - Amends the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) to repeal the authority of a convening authority (the person taking action on the findings of a court-martial) to use discretion to either set aside a finding of guilty or change such finding to a finding of guilty to a lesser included offense (except with respect to a minor offense). Requires a convening authority, when changing a charge with respect to a minor offense, to prepare a written explanation of such action, which shall be made part of the record.

Prohibits a convening authority from reducing a sentence to less than the mandatory minimum sentence, unless to reflect the substantial assistance by the accused in the investigation or prosecution of another person who has committed an offense. Requires a convening authority who disapproves, commutes, or suspends a sentence, in whole or in part, to prepare a detailed written explanation therefor, which shall be made part of the record.

Requires mandatory dismissal or dishonorable discharge of a person found guilty under the UCMJ of rape, sexual assault, forcible sodomy, or an attempt thereof.

Eliminates any statute of limitations with respect to UCMJ actions for sexual assault of a child.

Authorizes the Secretary of the military department concerned to provide guidance for commanders regarding their authority to make determinations, and to take action, regarding whether a member of the Armed Forces (member) serving on active duty who is alleged to have committed a sexual assault or other sex-related offense should be temporarily reassigned or removed from a position of authority or assignment in order to maintain order and discipline within the member's unit.

Directs the Secretary concerned to designate legal counsel (knows as a Victims' Counsel) to provide legal assistance to a member or dependent who is the victim of a sex-related offense, whether the allegation is restricted (confidential) or unrestricted. Requires enhanced training for all military and civilian attorneys providing such assistance.

Requires the Secretary of Defense (DOD) to report to the congressional defense committees on: (1) sentencing guidelines and mandatory minimum sentencing provisions under the UCMJ, and (2) the roles of commanders in the administration of military justice and the investigation, prosecution, and adjudication of UCMJ offenses.

Armed Services Committee

House· Standing
Assault and harassment offensesCrime victimsCrimes against womenCriminal procedure and sentencingLawyers and legal servicesMilitary command and structureMilitary lawMilitary personnel and dependentsSex offensesViolent crime

Introduced in House

May 8, 2013

BE SAFE Act — Informed